Plans to create Preston’s first loft style apartments in a historic Victorian warehouse have been given the nod.

Etc Urban Developments is now set to start work on the £2.5m regeneration project, that will see a long-derelict former carriage works and yeast warehouse in Guildhall Street transformed.

It will include 20 apartments above a street-level arcade of commercial space, aimed at restaurant and cafe bar or retail use.

Neil Thornton, director of Etc Urban Developments, said: “With the backing of the Growing Places Fund and full support from Preston Council’s planning team, we can make a start on this exciting project restoring an historic and important commercial building in Preston from the Victorian era back to full use in the 21st century.

“The intention is for the Guildhall Street warehouse conversion project to act as a catalyst for further regeneration and residential projects, bringing increased vitality to Preston’s city centre.”